Jonathan Epperson previews college commitment; 4-star athlete down to Arizona, Oregon, Utah, Washington

Auburn Riverside (Washington) four-star athlete Jonathan Epperson is set to announce his commitment later this month

Auburn Riverside (Washington) four-star athlete Jonathan Epperson is one of the prospects in the Northwest.

In fact, the 6-foot, 195-pound versatile defensive back/linebacker may wind up as the No. 1 player in the region by the time his high school career comes to an end.

But while Epperson's stock continues to climb - he's the nation's No. 12 athlete - his recruitment is nearing a close.

He intends to announce his college commitment January 15 at Heir Football Academy and is down to a top four of Arizona, Oregon, Utah and Washington.

Epperson, who is from a military family, primarily grew up in the South, but has an all-West region collection of finalists.

He broke down those options with SBLive Sports this week.

Arizona Wildcats: “Coach Jedd Fisch came in there and turned things around. He’s done a great job down there. I can really see myself in their defense and I think I really fit into their defense. I got injured this season and missed a couple of games. Some schools backed off, but Arizona stayed the most consistent. It’s more than just football when it comes to Arizona.”

Oregon Ducks: “Culture is a big thing, and Oregon’s culture is amazing. It’s always a great time down there in Eugene. Their defense is dominant and there’s a family atmosphere when you go down there. I could see myself being in the same position as a guy like Jeffrey Bassa, so being able to see yourself in a position the field is amazing.”

Utah Utes: “They’ve got a nasty, gritty defense and the work ethic is amazing. They are just different. The Utes are just different. You come in there, you go to work in their program and you are going to come out on top. You buy into this program and you’re going to be great.”

Washington Huskies: “I love the atmosphere. I love how welcoming they are when I go to practice. I love how they get after it… even in practice. I saw that in a spring practice. They go to to work.”

“There’s a little intrigue with them in the national championship, because you look at it and think, ‘this program is successful. They compete.’ When you go to UDub [Washington], you know you are going to compete for something.”

Junior season highlights